Victoria , Australia

Historic Bendigo City Walking Tour

Active

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Step back into Bendigo’s golden age on this 2hr guided city walk. Starting at the Bendigo Visitor Centre, your journey unfolds through Pall Mall with its grand French-inspired architecture and the story of George Lansell, the Quartz King. Pass the historic Sandhurst Mining Exchange, once second only to London in trading, before pausing in Rosalind Park to uncover the tale of the Red Ribbon Rebellion that helped shape democracy in Australia.

Along the way, explore colonial justice at the Old Gaol, Police Barracks and Supreme Court, and discover the legacy of Bendigo’s Chinese community in the charming precinct and gardens. Admire St Killian's Church, and the stunning Town Hall before concluding with peek inside the famous Shamrock Hotel .

Voted Best New Tourism Business 2025 - Victorian Tourism Awards
Finalist - 2025 Australian Tourism Awards
As Featured by Tourism Australia.

Come and discover the real gold of Bendigo.

Available options

Historic Bendigo City Walking Tour

What's included

All entry fees (Chinese Gardens and Shamrock Hotel) included.

Detailed itinerary

Our adventure begins at the Bendigo Visitor Centre before strolling along the opulent Pall Mall towards the iconic View Point and Alexandra Fountain.

Rosalind Park, once the bustling heart of the goldfield camp, is now a green haven with leafy paths, fountains, and a colony of flying foxes. Within this landscape lie stories of the Red Ribbon Rebellion, a mass protest that changed the course of Australian history. Nearby, the Old Bendigo Gaol, Police Barracks, and Supreme Court stand as enduring reminders of colonial justice on the goldfields.

On this part of the tour, you’ll stand before the Old Bendigo Gaol, Police Barracks, and Supreme Court, where colonial justice was handed down to those who lived and worked on the goldfields.

Stroll through the charming Chinese Precinct and Gardens, where Bendigo’s Chinese community once flourished. Here you’ll uncover stories of resilience, tradition, and the enduring cultural legacy they left on the city.

Peak inside the historic St Killian's Church, the largest wooden church in the Southern Hemisphere. Hear the story Reverend Bachaus and see his original rough hewn seat.

We'll take in Bendigo's first stunning example of French inspired architecture at the Bendigo Town Hall, renovated to it's current appearence in the 1870's. Along the way we'll pass Bendigo's oldest homestead.

We'll call into the famous for complimentary tea/coffee at the grand Shamrock Hotel where you'll be entertained with tales of feisty gold rush dancer Lola Montez and the difficult Dame Nellie Melba.

What's not included

Gratuities (Optional)

Available languages

Audio guide

Guide guide

Written guide

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Basic level of fitness required.

Meeting point

Meet in front of the steps of the Bendigo Visitor Centre, 51-67 Pall Mall Bendigo, 3550.

About Victoria

Victoria is Australia's smallest state in terms of land area, but it is the most densely populated. Known for its vibrant arts scene, stunning coastal landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, Victoria offers a diverse range of experiences. From the bustling city of Melbourne to the serene Great Ocean Road, it's a destination that caters to all types of travelers.

Top Attractions

Great Ocean Road

One of the world's most scenic coastal drives, the Great Ocean Road offers breathtaking views of the ocean, rainforests, and the famous Twelve Apostles.

Nature Full day to multi-day trip Free to drive, but some attractions may have entry fees

Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG)

The Melbourne Cricket Ground is one of the world's most famous cricket and Australian football venues. It offers tours and is a must-visit for sports enthusiasts.

Sports/Historical 1-2 hours for a tour AUD 15-35 for tours, depending on the type

Phillip Island

Phillip Island is famous for its penguin parade, where little penguins return to shore at sunset. The island also offers beautiful beaches, wildlife parks, and scenic drives.

Nature/Animal Full day trip AUD 35-50 for the Penguin Parade, depending on the season

Must-Try Local Dishes

Avocado Toast

A popular breakfast dish made with sourdough bread, mashed avocado, and various toppings such as poached eggs, feta, and chili flakes.

Breakfast Vegetarian, can be made vegan

Meat Pie

A classic Australian savory pie filled with minced meat and gravy, often served with tomato sauce.

Snack Contains meat, gluten, and dairy

Lamingtons

A popular Australian dessert made with sponge cake coated in chocolate icing and desiccated coconut.

Dessert Contains gluten, dairy, and nuts

Popular Activities

Hiking Surfing Hot air ballooning Spa treatments Beach lounging Wine tasting Museum visits Art gallery tours

Best Time to Visit

December to February

This is the summer season, perfect for outdoor activities, beach trips, and festivals. The weather is warm and sunny, making it ideal for exploring the city and its surroundings.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: English, Mandarin, Italian, Greek, Vietnamese
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Australian Dollar (AUD)

Time Zone

GMT+10

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Melbourne is generally a safe city, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services

Getting there

By air

Melbourne Airport • 23 km from city center

By train

Southern Cross Station

By bus

Southern Cross Coach Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The train system is efficient and covers most of the city and its suburbs. Myki cards are used for payment.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Melbourne CBD St Kilda Fitzroy

Day trips

Yarra Valley

60 km from Melbourne • Full day trip

The Yarra Valley is a popular wine region offering stunning scenery, award-winning wineries, and gourmet dining. It's also home to the famous Healesville Sanctuary, a wildlife park showcasing Australian native animals.

Mornington Peninsula

80 km from Melbourne • Full day trip

The Mornington Peninsula offers beautiful beaches, scenic coastal drives, and a range of outdoor activities. It's also known for its hot springs, wineries, and golf courses.

Ballarat

120 km from Melbourne • Full day trip

Ballarat is a historic gold rush town offering a range of museums, historic sites, and scenic attractions. It's known for its well-preserved Victorian architecture and rich gold mining history.

Festivals

Australian Open • Mid-January Melbourne International Arts Festival • October Melbourne Cup • First Tuesday of November

Pro tips

Use a Myki card for easy and convenient public transport
Explore the city's laneways and arcades for hidden gems and unique shopping experiences
Try the famous Australian coffee culture and visit one of the city's many award-winning cafes
Visit the Queen Victoria Market for a taste of local flavors and unique souvenirs
Take a day trip to the Yarra Valley for wine tasting and stunning scenery